The Quiet Corner THE ARTS, DINING, ANTIQUES, ATTRACTIONS & SO MUCH MORE...

PUTNAMSupporting Tourism & Communities TRAVELER in Northeastern, CT & Beyond... ISSUE NO. 49 • NORTHEASTERN, CONNECTICUT DOWNTOWN MAP INSIDE • JANUARY - MARCH 2016 For an afternoon, a day, or a weekend...come and enjoy Northeastern Connecticut!

CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret

inter is upon us, although up until now, college QVCC provides plenty of programs for learning Italian, Greek and even Gluten Free...Learn the history of the weather has been mild, rest assured the and entrichment. The Vanilla Bean Cafe provides The Abington Social Library...established by the women Wsnow will arrive soon! So to help keep you musical entertainment without the long drive to Boston of Abington in 1813 this is the longest continuously busy (and warm) this winter, we are featuring indoor or Providence. If you like pizza this issue features some running social library in the US...Want to save money on and outdoor winter activities, plus energy savings, and of our favorite pizza places in the Quiet Corner. Plus your energy bills this winter? Call Titan Energy...a local of course comfort food. discover a convenient way to save energy saving company that seeks to both maximize This is a beautiful time of on energy bills this winter by calling energy service and minimize costs for their residential year to explore the trails of Titan Energy. We hope you enjoy and commercial clients...Get outside and walk the trails of the Connecticut Audubon this issue of The Putnam Traveler! the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Pomfret...The Society Center at Pomfret. Grassland Bird Conservation Center, Bafflin Sanctuary Get a glimpse of the birds INSIDE: and Trail Wood all feature numerous scheduled activities nesting and enjoy a little fresh Local Advertisers…Local Real both indoors and out from January through March... air. Become a member of Estate...Downtown Putnam Events... Quinebaug Valley Community College offers a variety of the Abington Social Library, If you love Pizza...there are plenty programs to keep you busy throughout the year...and The the longest continuously of options in and near the Quiet Vanilla Bean Cafe...is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy running social library in the Corner...from New York Style, live folk music! US! Our local community

Downtown Putnam & Area Maps • Businesses • Local Activities • Shopping & Events

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PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT America’s Favorite Food! PIZZA IN THE QUIET CORNER

According to The Atlantic magazine (which gleaned this fact from a 2014 U.S. Department of Agriculture report), “About 1 in 8 Americans eats pizza any given day.” Connecticut has a long history with this favored food. Pepe’s Pizzeria, established in New Haven in 1925, is heralded as the home of the first American style pizza. It’s probably fair to say there’s at least one pizza joint in almost every town in our country. The Quiet Corner is no exception. Google “quiet corner ct pizza restaurants” and you’ll get over 200,000 results! And it seems that our area’s pizza lovers can support them all.

BY CRIS CADIZ

oted last year as a favorite in the “Best Pizza bit for this popular restaurant’s pizza (or calzone) or choose from in Connecticut” feature article in Connecticut New York style thin crust pizza. their famous ‘designer’ pizza NMagazine, Sweet Evalina’s got kudos for It closed on October 31st menu including taco pizza their “thin-crust New York-style pizza” about which “the after 17 years to renovate a and seafood casino. A second locals rave.” And the love goes both ways…as a thank new larger location, also location, Willington you to their loyal Quiet Corner customers in spring in Plainfield. New York Pizza Too, is located on of 2015, owners Tom and Polly Hayden gave away Pizza is slated to reopen Route 72 in Willington. fifteen free pizzas to celebrate their 15th anniversary in at 733 Norwich Road (the Gluten-free pizza business. old Doyal Drug building) lovers don’t need to be Located just south of the Woodstock town green around March 15th. Look disappointed, since a on Route 169, Sweet Evalina’s is a “roadside restaurant” them up on Facebook for number of Quiet Corner offering casual indoor & outdoor dining. Open daily the opening day. restaurants have added a for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, Sweet Evalina’s Originally from the gluten free crust option to also serves other American favorites such as burgers, Bronx, owner Jimmy Manecho their menus. Pomfret’s Dayna hot dogs, sandwiches, salads & wraps. The Hayden’s describes...“If I had to choose Flath “loves Pizza 101 and regularly create different kinds of gourmet pies— another place it would be Sweet especially their gluten free crust!” including seasonal treats like butternut squash in fall Evalina’s,” says Ethan. “I haven’t eaten there Located at 16 Mashamoquet Road in and asparagus in the spring. very many times, but if you asked anyone in my grade Pomfret Center, Pizza 101 is a small family restaurant “We personally think that Sweet Evalina’s has the what their favorite pizza place is, I’m sure almost all of popular for both dining in and take out. It serves a best pizza around,” says resident Kimberly Ferreira them would say Sweet Evalina’s.” variety of Greek, Mediterranean and American menu Shepherd, speaking for herself and her family. “We Pizza Pizzazz (www.letseat.at/pizzapizzazz) items. like the New York at 136 Main Street in Lori McDermott, also of Pomfret, is a fan of style thin crust. The Danielson is family- Bella’s Bistro’s (www.bellasbistromarket.com) variety of toppings owned and operated. gluten free pizza, although this restaurant’s regular on specialty pizzas The pizza is fresh, the crust has many aficionados as well. Carmel Osterlund is a plus…my crust is thin, and they claims “Bellas pizza is to die for… Love it!” Located on personal favorites offer generous portions Main Street in downtown Putnam, Bella’s Bistro offers are artichoke and by the slice. Pizza Pizzaz award-winning northern Italian cuisine, pedestrians can asparagus.” is also known for their often smell the aroma’s coming from the kitchen while Another USDA calzones. The restaurant passing by! Their seasonal al fresco seating makes this pizza fact reported is clean and the staff is a fun place to eat and people watch especially during by The Atlantic is friendly. Putnam’s events, such as First Fridays and Riverfire. that “more than Also family-run, Just across the street from Bella’s, Someplace one-quarter of Riverside Pizza, Special (wwwsomeplacespecialrestaurant.com) boys between 6 located in Thompson voted ‘Best Italian in Windham County’ by Connecticut and 19 eat pizza is great for dining-in, Magazine in 2010, this popular Putnam pizza stop and every day.” Twelve- carryout and delivery. family restaurant and pub. It also features outdoor year-old Ethan Bove’s two favorite pizza places are Johnny’s Pizza (www.johnnyspizza.com)and seating and is a popular local take-out option. Woodstock Pizza and New York Pizza in Brooklyn Pizza, both located in Brooklyn, offer Palmieri’s Pizza (www.palmierispizza. Plainfield. “Woodstock Pizza is always great for a quick great pizza options, dine-in or take-out. com) located in the Price Chopper Plaza in downton pizza whenever we don’t know what to have for lunch If you are willing to travel a little further, Putnam, offers New York style pizza (with gluten free or dinner,” says Ethan, whose personal favorite there is Willington Pizza House (www. options) and Italian Cuisine. This popular pizzaria is buffalo chicken pizza. “New York Pizza is always a joy to willingtonpizza.com) located on Route 32 in small and tables fill up quickly especially after local high stop at,” he continues. “In fact, for the longest time we Willington, was voted “Best Pizza”Connecticut Magazine school sporting events. Dine in or take out. would eat there every Friday night.” Reader’s Choice Tolland County. Willington Pizza focuses Ethan and other New York Pizza & Pasta Co. fans on hand-made crust, the key to a good pizza pie. Visit (3,000+ on Facebook!) are probably chomping at the their website to learn how it is made. Build your own

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P U T N A M T R A V E L E R 3 PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT A Historical Library Still Serves the Community

In 1793 the residents of Abington, CT decided to form a library. At this time, “social libraries” were the norm - members paid a low yearly subscription which supported the purchase of books to be shared by all. In Abington, the initial members paid 12 shillings and drew up a charter for the establishment of the Social Library of Abington. They boasted 100 books, primarily from the library of the first librarian, the Reverend Walter Lyon of the Abington Congregational Church. Today, the Abington Social Library is the longest continuously running social library in the United States, maintaining a cozy library building stocked with books for every taste and providing community events for the residents of the Quiet Corner.

BY JENNIFER HELLER

o have such a venerable institution in our community is a treasure and I had the pleasure Tof chatting with Bonnie Duncan, the Director. Both she and library staff member Joyce Davis were charming founts of information and historical tidbits. Learning about the concept of a social library, I was curious where all the other social libraries went. Mrs. Duncan explained that, while we require taxes to fund public libraries for the free use of everyone, that is a relatively new expectation. Publicly funded libraries arose with the influence of the Carnegie Foundation beginning about 1893 - after the Abington Social Library had been going strong for a full century. As recognition grew that a public library was a community necessity and tax-based funding was established, most social libraries segued into local public libraries. But not so the Abington Social Library: made up of independent minded New Englanders, they preferred to keep their library autonomous and self-sufficient. And rightly so, as in the previous century the Abington Social Library had proven itself able to serve the needs of the local inhabitants, and able to design an institution that blended the strong-wills and creative minds of the local organizations. In 1813 the women of Abington stepped into the pages of history by collections and pooled Social Library. The national psyche caught up to the chartering their own their resources. forward-thinkers in the Quiet Corner and after 1893 library - a revolutionary Infrastructure other communities across the U.S. began building their act for that time. was the next frontier. own buildings, which were largely funded through the Their historic charter Heretofore, library Carnegie Foundation, maintained with taxes, and are was even exhibited collections had been kept the public libraries of today. in the 1893 Chicago in a member’s house, So what is the Abington Social Library today? World’s Fair. And they or perhaps rotated from It is a testament to the power and creative genius of maintained their own, house to house. But committed individuals who make up this vibrant autonomous library the book collections community. With over 220 years of uninterrupted until 1879. That year kept growing and in library service the Abington Social Library collection is the men and women 1884 the townspeople large, consisting of historical books, current bestsellers, of Abington chose to of Abington made non-fiction, audio books, DVDs and more. The merge both the Ladies another revolutionary Children’s library is a cozy, well-lit room with a glowing Social Library and plan: to build a building floor, thanks to the hard work of Sean Cunningham, the United Library of Abington - a permutation of the specifically to house books and serve as a reading room. Eagle Scout and other members of the community. The original Social Library of Abington plus the Junior The grand opening in 1885 made it the first library library also offers wireless internet service and public Library of Abington - into the Abington Social Library building in Connecticut and the original building and computers and hosts lively book discussions on the 3rd under the original charter. They combined their book porch remain the heart of the modern-day Abington Thursday of each month.

4 P U T N A M T R A V E L E R PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT

BY JENNIFER HELLER

inter brings chilly days, crackling with a rate that has been negotiated by Titan fires…and shocking energy with an energy company and locked in for Wbills! While I love the four 12, 24 or 36 months, you can say goodbye seasons here in New England, the sticker to sudden, unexpected energy rate jumps. It is awe-inspiring that 90% of the collection is Ms. Lind cautions that, as rates jump up so donated. Each year the Pomfret Lions Club providers shock when a natural gas or electricity book alternatives (audio or large-print books) for the bill comes is not so lovely. Energy bills are they may drop down and she encourages visually impaired. And additional books on CD come something none of us likes to hassle with - clients to look at the broader picture of on a 3 month rotation from the CT State library. The mostly because of the unpleasant costs and risk management and the ability to budget Abington Social Library receives some limited funding overwhelming questions that accompany appropriately, rather focusing on trying to save from the Town of Pomfret which they augment through a few cents every a variety of entertaining fundraising events throughout finding and the year. These are local traditions that include Breakfast keeping a reliable month - which with Santa, the Annual Pet Show and themed tea plan. But how do inevitably ends up parties. you make sense with hidden costs, The library is also available as a meeting space for of the myriad of fees, and dropped local non-profit organizations, social and community service. events. The library has hosted dedications, weddings, plans, companies, nature walks, outdoor concerts, movie nights, authors’ and offers? Into presentations, book signings, educational seminars, this blizzard of In addition to game nights, and chess clubs. The Abington Social options, Titan energy brokering, Library and the Pomfret Public Library work together Energy steps: Titan Energy also on events such as the “Quiet Corner Reads” and hope to contracts with expand their fruitful collaboration. sifting through the Last but certainly not least: Since 1999, the plans and offering EarthLight to offer Abington Social Library has presented every baby born their clients their commercial at Day Kimball Hospital with a book to take home. They competitive rates, clients energy have collected and donated over 12,400 books to date! locked-in with a audits and Mrs. Duncan says one of her greatest joys comes when recommendations she mentions her job at the Abington Social Library contract. and someone from the greater area says, “I/my son/ for energy my daughter have a book from that library!” - given to Titan Energy is a national energy brokerage efficiency retrofitting. Earthlight can come them at their birth. We can be proud not only of the aggregator, which means they are able to your business, or other commercial entity distinguished history at Abington Social Library, but to negotiate with energy suppliers for the and assess how and where the energy is also of the beautiful legacy it is creating. going. Following this, not only does EarthLight And how about that 12 shilling membership fee? best electrical and natural gas rates. They While it is no longer a “members only” library and all seek to both maximize energy service and identify where your energy losses are the are welcome to use its services, it is still possible to minimize costs for their clients. They serve greatest, but Titan Energy in conjunction with become a member of the Abington Social Library for the both residential and commercial clients, EarthLight offers bids to update, improve, whopping dues of $2.00 a year. including public systems such as towns and retrofit your establishment for increased energy efficiency and cost savings. In CURRENT INFORMATION: with multiple buildings and complicated Library hours: Monday – 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; infrastructures. Titan Energy’s headquarters addition, Titan Energy is expanding into the Wednesday 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Thursday 3:00 are in Rocky Hill, CT and their Energy growing field of solar energy. p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to noon. Consultant for the Quiet Corner is Elaine Lind, located in Brooklyn, CT. So while the winter may be long and cold, Website: www.abingtonsociallibrary.org don’t let your energy needs overwhelm you. Contact information: (860) 974-0415 While many of us get energy offers which Contact Elaine Lind, Titan Energy Consultant Location: 536 Hampton Road, Pomfret Center, CT promise low rates, hidden in the fine print at 860-774-1047 or visit Titan’s webpage at: - located on Route 97, just south of Rucki’s General may be price hikes after 1 month. However, http://titanenergyne.com Store and north of We-Lik-It Ice Cream.

The book discussions meet on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m.

Theatre of Northeastern Connecticut 30 Front Street (Rt. 44) Downtown Putnam, Connecticut

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM u u SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) Antique Flooring Jan 29, 2016 - Feb 14, 2016 u u Join three madcap actors wearing tights as they Vintage Building Materials weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s u Architectural Antiques u Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies in one wild ride that will leave you both breathless and helpless with laughter. Non-musical $19 & $15 www.oldwoodworkshop.com ‘NIGHT MOTHER Feb 19, 2016 - Feb 28, 2016 Giving old wood new life... A Pulitzer prize-winning play that deals with depression and the relationship between THOMAS CAMPBELL a Mother and Daughter in a single fateful 193 Hampton Road, Pomfret Center, CT 06259 night. A powerfully moving dark drama. Non-musical $19 & &15 860-655-5259 For tickets please order online or call 860-928-7887 www.thebradleyplayhouse.org “Open by chance or appointment” Tickets may be purchased at the box office.

P U T N A M T R A V E L E R 5 PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT Winter Activities at CT Audubon Although many birds have flown south and the landscape might be hidden by snow, winter is not necessarily a quiet time at the Connecticut Audubon Society’s Pomfret and Hampton locations. The Grassland Bird Conservation Center, Bafflin Sanctuary and Trail Wood all feature numerous scheduled activities both indoors and out from January through March. In addition, anyone may use the walking trails year-round from dawn to dusk for free.

BY CRIS CADIZ

inter is about getting out and walking,” says Director Sarah Heminway. “We’ve got over ten miles of trails. People can also cross country ski and snowshoe. The trickiest part is staying “Won the trails in the snow. We get a lot of people all year round including winter. More and more are linking up to us through the Airline Trail. Folks don’t fully appreciate it because they don’t see a lot of people since we have so many ways to access our trails.” Sarah’s favorite spot on the Bafflin Sanctuary’s 700 acres during winter is Alfalfa Hill on the Chain Link trail. “As long as the wind is not howling too hard, this is the best place because the view is spectacular.” Trail maps are available online or at the Center on Day Road in Pomfret. For those who prefer a guided experience, many options are available throughout winter. “There’s always two days a week that we have scheduled walks going on,” she says. Wednesday Noon Walks for all ages offer “fresh air, exercise, good company and naturalist lessons along the way.” Thursday Morning Walks start at 8:30 a.m. for those interested in “getting out on the trails in the quiet beauty of the early day.” These guided walks on the Bafflin Sanctuary are led by Connecticut Audubon “We also have date-to-be-determined evening enough to know to be quiet.” Society volunteers and are free to CAS members; $3 for snowshoe hikes at Trail Wood,” says Sarah. “You’ll get a Indoor programs at the Pomfret Center are just non-members. day or two advance notice in terms of when that might as informative and intriguing. “We’re going to have a Sanctuary Manager and expert birder Andy be happening depending on conditions.” An email giant exhibit of pelts and skulls as part of our wildlife Rzeznikiewicz leads Monthly Bird Walks on notification list is managed by [email protected]. mammal and monitoring [Citizen Science] program,” Thursdays at 1PM (Jan 21, Feb 18) to search for These are free for CAS members; $3 non-members. says Sarah. This two-day exhibition on Jan. 16 & wintering species such as horned larks, ducks, hawks, “In January, February and March, we try and run as 17, “Skulls, Skins, and Scat!”, features a collection of sparrows, and more. An Owl Walk is scheduled for much programming as we can on Sunday afternoons,” preserved mounts, pelts, skulls, and other signs of Saturday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. to find screech, barred, and Sarah says. “People can drive, it’s not dark, a lot of wildlife found in northeast Connecticut. In addition, great-horned owls. In years past, groups located saw- folks are getting cabin fever and want to get outside. “Fishers: Fastest Mammals in Trees” on Jan. 16 will be whet and long-eared So we try and do led by Ray Hardy, DEEP Master Naturalist and tracking owls. The cost for “When folks come out here they often think of it as a state park set up a combination of volunteer. Two taxidermy programs in January, one these programs is $5 walks and lectures on birds and another on mammals, will offer talks and CAS members; $10 for their recreation. But it’s not,” she reminds us. “It was set up as a and art openings.” non-members. wildlife sanctuary and we as walkers are guests.” The indoor space Group walks on at the Grassland Trail Wood’s 168-acre Center on Day sanctuary in Hampton Road lends itself well to art exhibits. “Birding Through are also scheduled this winter. Second Sunday Walks the Years with Paint and Brush” is one such show by offer a chance to “soak up winter’s beauty” with Sterling resident and talented wildlife artist David caretaker Vern Pursley on Jan. 10 and Feb. 14 at 2 Stumpo. His exquisite watercolors of birds and other p.m. You can discover the magic of Trail Wood in the native species runs through February 1st. moonlight on Full Moon Walks, Jan. 23 and Feb. 20 at Programs are scheduled for all ages, including an 7 p.m. A Winter Night Sky Walk on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. is After School Nature Club for grades K-6. Winter is a hosted by John Morey “under the dark skies of the new great time to search for animal tracks and sign, which moon.” Starting in Edwin Way Teale’s beloved Starfield become more obvious in snow. “Afternoons will be filled Pasture, the program will make observations about the with fresh air, exercise and fun,” relates the brochure. night sky. Bring binoculars and/or telescope. Cost for “Wildlife lessons will be quietly inserted along the way.” these Trail Wood Programs: CAS members free; non- Sarah also notes that children are welcome to join “any members $3. second Sunday walks and owl walks if they are old

COVENTRY ARTS & ANTIQUES

Open Wednesday through Sunday 10am - 5pm 1140 Main Street Coventry, CT 06238

Anne C. Burke 860-498-0352 c: 860-208-8215

6 P U T N A M T R A V E L E R PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT demonstrations. A full list of winter programming is Orswell, who wanted to see wildlife protected,” Sarah Connecticut Audubon Society’s Grassland Bird featured on the CT Audubon website. explains. “We work really hard to maintain habitats Conservation Center is located at 218 Day Road, Indoor events at Trail Wood/Edwin Way Teale that are specifically providing food for wildlife.” Birds Pomfret Center. Center Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 Memorial Sanctuary in Hampton are focused on the that nest on the ground or in the grasses include the a.m.-4:00 p.m., Saturday-Sunday Noon-4:00 p.m. The sanctuary’s namesake, Pulitzer Prize winning naturalist woodcock, killdeer, and the threatened or endangered adjoining 700-acre Bafflin Sanctuary is open daily, and author Edwin species eastern year-round, from dawn to dusk. Way Teale. Scheduled meadowlark, Trail Wood is located at 93 Kenyon Road in for Sunday, Feb. bobolink, and Hampton. This 168-acre Trail Wood Sanctuary 7, 2-4 p.m., “Teale savannah sparrow. is open daily, year-round, from dawn to dusk. Readings” offers “Dog owners need (Buildings open to the public only by appointment.) a chance to read, to understand that For more information on membership, trails and share and discuss when you’ve got programs (including cost, times and dates), visit your favorite Teale a dog romping www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret or call (860) passages with hot through it stresses 928-4948. beverages and a fire in the Trail Wood Museum (Free the birds and there may be no offspring,” says Sarah. The mission of the Audubon is to conserve but please RSVP). The sanctuary also supports field sparrows, blue winged Connecticut’s environment through science-based “Edwin Way Teale & the Literary Character of Trail warblers, common yellowthroat, and towhees in the education and advocacy focused on the state’s bird Wood” (Sunday, Feb. 21, 2-4 p.m.) is a winter writer’s transition shrub habitat and there are also woodland populations and their habitats. Visit the website workshop led by author Alison Davis. This is part of a ground nesting species like the oven bird. to learn how to become a member, volunteer, and “People need to understand that there are participate in programs. designated trails and we expect people and dogs to stay on those trails so wildlife is not driven off. Currently, we are the only sanctuary CT Audubon owns that allows dogs. However, wildlife is our priority. People are not keeping their dogs on a leash and they are not cleaning up after their dogs. We are getting to the point where we If You Enjoy the Putnam Traveler may actually have to prohibit them.” “It is imperative for humans and pets to stay Please Support Our Efforts far away from our kestrel boxes,” Sarah warns. “The By Advertising in this Valuable endangered kestrel, Connecticut’s smallest falcon, have nested for many seasons on the sanctuary but we had Tourism and Community Publication! no successful clutches this past summer. Nesting owls, Call 860-963-0414 or email: although in trees cannot be disturbed by our presence or they too will not reproduce. We all need to be [email protected] mindful of this delicate balance that provides habitat for Distributed to over 10,000 households - both wildlife and humans to thrive.” 5,000 copies distributed to businesses in Please respect these rules, so we all (including our animals) Connecticut & Massachusetts can enjoy the sanctuary!

Dogs must be on leash at all times (this is a state law). Email press releases and article ideas to: People and dogs must stay on trails. [email protected]

Collecting (plants of any kind) is prohibited. Putnam Traveler reserves the right to edit articles as needed. series emphasizing the literary character of Trail Wood GD Publishing, LLC provides design, photography, editorial & where Teale wrote many of his books. Sarah mentions sales for the Putnam Traveler. that this is the 4th season of Writer’s in Residence program at Trail Wood. Each year in February an exhibit and reading of this past year’s chosen artists and writers celebrates their accomplishments. Writers and visual artists can apply for this juried chance to spend one week working at the former home of Edwin Way Teale. Applications are online at ctaudubon.org. Sarah admits that the growing popularity of the CT Audubon sanctuaries in Northeastern Connecticut is a mixed blessing. “We conservatively estimate that between programs and walkers we get over 15,000 people annually on this property. You don’t want things to get over loved but you do want people to enjoy it.” She is adamant about one thing for the benefit of all—both humans, who derive pleasure from this protected land, and animals, which rely on the property’s resources to stay alive. She asks all visitors to please respect the rules of the sanctuary, which are few 112 Main Street and simple, but exceedingly important to the mission of Putnam this special place. 860.963.0105 “Bafflin Sanctuary in Pomfret is a grassland bird sanctuary. This 700-acre property was saved by Lois www.artsandframingputnam.com www.101bs.com

winter, warm bright and An oasis in colorful! Green and flowering plants, terrariums, air plants & accessories. Seasonal home décor, Stonewall Kitchen, fine chocolates and party wares to enhance your celebrations. We need your support to help us preserve and protect land in Northeast Connecticut. Conserving land in the Quiet Corner for 41 years.

For more information about our work and how you can enjoy our preserves, visit us at 260 Rte. 171 • South Woodstock, CT www.wyndhamlandtrust.org or find us on Facebook. (860) 928-0571 • Mon - Sat 9-5, Sunday Seasonal www.gardengatefloristct.com Your membership and donations are tax deductible.

P U T N A M T R A V E L E R 7 PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT

Several courses are mainstays including: • Real Estate Principles& Practices, which meets EDUCATION, in Danielson on Monday and Wednesdays from March 7-May 23 and in Willimantic on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February 16-May 3 INFORMATION AND • Grant Writing – An introduction from two times, April 1& 8 • Veterinary Assistant, a course that reportedly fills quickly, meets April5-November 1 FRIENDSHIP • Photography – Get Out of the Automode! runs Winter weather need not keep us indoors. Quinebaug Valley Community College in Dayville from March 8-April 26 offers a variety of programs to enliven even the longest winter days and nights. Express Computer Training includes Access, Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Photoshop and Quickbooks on a BY NANCY P. WEISS variety of locations from March through May. Classes run from 9am-4pm unless otherwise noted with evening e’re a community college and we always go classes in getting started and moving beyond the basics. back to the word ‘community’. I feel we For more information or to register contact “W have a variety of offerings that can meet the Continuing Education at 860-932-4005 or needs of many demographic groups,” said Sue Breault, www.QVCC.edu/ce. Director of College Marketing and Communications. The college offers credit and non-credit courses LiR offers ‘lifelong learning for adults’ in a and well as open houses for area residents under the ‘stimulating and social environment’. Founded in auspices of both the college and the non-profit, QVCC 1994, last year the organization had 429 members. Over Foundation. The Spirol Gallery of Visual and Performing time it has also created two endowed scholarships for Arts vibrates with the lively work of students, who QVCC students. There is an annual membership fee present their creative products in a wide variety of media. of $20 for the year that runs from September 2015- Jen Espeseth, a Graphics Specialist and Adjunct June2016. New members are welcome year round. Faculty in the Art Department, said: “We showcase The Customer Service Boot Camp, which is offered www.qvcc.edu/ce/LiR offers updates. everything out students learn in a semester. Our shows February 10-11 from 9am-4pm, is a popular program for For winter 2016, Dynamic Duos (3 sessions) of feature art majors and non-majors. For some students individuals and companies interested in beefing up their Friday films will look at pairings of films in The Thin this is the first time they have ever shown their work internal and external customer service function. Taught Man Goes Home, The Odd Couple and When Harry in public. The Gallery gives the community and other by Rockie Blunt, the program offers real life examples to Met Sally. Presenter Beth Alves, an English professor students the chance to see what art is all about here. help improve communications, sales and competencies at QVCC will be present on Fridays, January22, There are 30-40 pieces from my class alone. We cover for the growth and success of organizations. 29,February 5, 1:00-3:00 in the Auditorium. everything from painting, sculpture, photography, Donna from Linemaster Switch Corporation Clare Despathy and Sheila Johnson, retired teachers computer graphics 3-modeling and printing.” enrolled in the course and said: “After taking the and members of the LiR Curriculum Committee will The Spirol Gallery is open Monday-Friday from 8:30- Customer Service Boot Camp training, I will be able offer a four session program entitled: A Smithsonian 8:00 and is located in the main lobby of the college. to take the suggestions, tips and new information Tour Through American History. Topics range from The Student Exhibit runs until February 5, 2016. back to my position and apply it to my daily job and interactions with internal colleagues and external OTHER EXHIBITS: customers.” Contact Kerstin Comtois at kcomtois@ qvcc.edu for further information. • Katherine Meyers- Installation March 204. Opening reception: Monday, March 28, 6-8pm. Continuing Education is at the core of the college’s Take down: April 6-8. mission and winter offers a variety of classes that can • Graduate Student Show – Installation: lead to a new career, new skills and new competencies. April 18-21. Opening reception: Thursday, In the health and healthcare field, there are courses April 21, 6-8pm. Take down: April 28-29. in Certified Nursing Assistant, EMT, Medical Office • Spring Student Exhibit- Installation: May 2-5. Receptionist, Pharmacy Technician, Adult & Pediatric Opening reception: Thursday, May 5, 6-8pm. First Aid/CPR/AED, Phlebotomy for Nurses, a new course this year. For individuals interested in developing new Always alert to changes challenges in the leadership skills, there is a four-module series, entitled community, the college is offering a program: Leadership At All Levels, taught by veteran instructor Responses & Resources: A Community Conversation The Star Spangled Banner to Immigrant Dreams and Rockie Blunt, Ed.D. The course begins with an about Youth Mental Health on March 17. Immigrant Struggles on Tuesdays, January 12,19,26, assessment of personal leadership styles in module one February 2 - 10:00-12:00. Auditorium. and progresses through interpersonal leadership, team A new direction this spring is entitled Flashback Movies (3 session) will focus on moves leadership and culminates in organizational leadership. Personal Health Topics and will include: from the 1980’s, with presenter Sheila Johnson. Movies The first module runs from January19-Feb. 9, with all ware Peggy Sue Got Married, Back to the Future, classes meeting from 8:30 am-12: 30pm. Participants • You Can Live Without Allergies – April 7 American Graffiti. Movie sessions are Tuesdays, January who complete the course receive a Master Certificate in • End the Nutrition Nightmare – April 14 12, 19, 26 - 1:00-3:00. Auditorium. Leadership. Contact Kerstin Comtois at kcomtois@ • Stop Brain Fog – April 21 qvcc.edu to enroll or for more information.

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8 P U T N A M T R A V E L E R PUTNAM TRAVELER NEWS • NORTHEAST, CONNECTICUT The Vanilla Bean Café A musical destination In a world filled with hype, the Vanilla Bean Café is the real thing. Named “Connecticut’s Best Country Café” by a prominent magazine, the Bean, as locals know it, is a constant, lively presence at 450 Deerfield Rd in Pomfret.

Presenter Roger Pellerine, PiR’s Treasurer will share BY NANCY P. WEISS • JANUARY 23 - will bring Don White, a seasoned videos from his collection in 4 sessions, entitled Concert professional, who has worked with many folk Video Series. The programs will be: Farewell Concert n warm weather, customers sit on the porch legends, to the stage. of the Statler Brothers, Neil Diamond in Concert, Daniel in the sunshine or eat beneath the spreading O’Donnell-Stand Beside Me, John Denver - The Wildlife Ibranches of ancient trees, but in winter, the • JANUARY 30 - features Howie Bursen and Concert. Concert dates are Fridays, January 15, 22, 29, restaurant takes on a warmer aspect, beckoning Friends for the benefit of the NE CT Food Bank. February 5 - 10:00-12:00. Auditorium. LiR will hold an visitors to come in out of the cold and dark for February 5 brings Open Mic – Wishbone Zoe Open House on Friday, February 19th at 1:00pm. hearty soups and warming conversations. On chilly In March the full range of programs will resume, evenings, the Bean offers not only sustinance for the • FEBRUARY 6 - will feature the CD release and according to LiR committee members. These offerings body, but music to brighten the soul. performance by Kevin Connolly. range from travel and history to health, nature, foreign Well known for its modern take on standard affairs and hobbies. Presenters are drawn from the café fare and its lively atmosphere, the eatery • FEBRUARY 12 - sees host Lisa Martin with community and from QVCC and UConn faculty. also plays an important role in the music scene Hootenanny and Songwriting. www.qvcc.ed/ce/LiR for more information. throughout New England. The roster of musicians who got their start performing in the cozy main • FEBRUARY 13 - brings local Blues band Delta Director of Development, Monique C. Wolanin room of the Vanilla Bean could fill a songbook of Generators to the stage. works with the volunteer board of the QVCC Who’s Who. Its role in the pantheon of important Foundation on a variety of programs to raise funds in music venues is noted in its place on the National • FEBRUARY 20 - local band Uninvited Wilson support of the college. The lively, well-attended events Folk Music Circuit. will perform. add a special spark and further the mission of outreach Since 1990 the Vanilla Bean has been hosting to the community while helping to support students. music in the folk tradition. FEBRUARY 21 - opens with Hayley Readon for “The QVCC Foundation hosts various events Brian Jessurun, co-owner with his brother, Barry, Peter Mulvey. throughout the year. The goal is to raise money and noted: “We’re iconic. It all began twenty-five years to introduce QVCC to residents of NECT and beyond ago because we had friends who played. It evolved. • FEBRUARY 27 - rock band Pat McGee will shake who might not know what a gem is located in their We give 90% of the proceeds to the musicians and things up. own backyard. Thanks to community support, the 10% to the host. People come for dinner before Foundation provided $190,000 to area students last the show and that adds to the atmosphere. We’ve • MARCH 4 - is Open Mic- Charles Paul year alone! New friends of QVCC are welcome at especially proud of the annual benefit for the upcoming events,” Wolanin said. Northeastern Connecticut Food Bank, this year on • MARCH 5 - duo Ron Anthony & Denny Collin January 30, and Woodstock Academy Open Mic on on stage EVENTS FOR 2016: March 18th for Project Graduation.” Howie Bursen, musician and winemaker, • MARCH 11 - is Hootenanny/Sessions hosted by The Spelling Bee – January 20, the adult spelling bee organized the first concert to benefit the food bank Lisa Martin is a fun filled raucous evening at the Putnam Elks. Get nearly a quarter a century ago as a natural outgrowth your team together now by contacting: of his commitment to “ thinking globally and acting • MARCH 12 - bring Blackstone Valley Bluegrass www.qvcc.edu/foundation locally, “I wanted to do the concert and four friends to the Bean joined me. Every year Jeff Davis, Martin Grosswendt, Visions and Leadership – Offers an opportunity and John Bailey play with me. John Bailey drives six • MARCH 18 - is Open Mic for Woodstock to learn from a nationally recognized speaker on hours from central New York to join us. These guys Academy students to benefit Project Graduation topics ranging from the reflections of a Navy SEAL to are pros and they donate their time and talent. Every observations of life as a swordfish boat captain. The dollar raised goes to the food bank budget and can • MARCH 19 - will be alive with the iconic music evening includes a chance to mingle with members be leveraged to buy as much as $8 for every dollar of Cashel Rock of the QVCC community and hear outstanding contributed,” Bursen said, noting that the program presentations. Contact [email protected] or 860- has sold out several times. Tickets range from $5 for Open Mic to $10, $15, 932-4174 for more information. Music at the VBC follows a schedule. Except and $20 depending on the performances and for January and July, the 1st Friday of every month can be purchased in advance or at the door (cash QVCC offers area residents a chance to enjoy movies, features Open Mic. or check only). All shows start at 8:00 unless take a course, explore new career options, bask in the In 2016, Ellis Paul will perform on Saturday, otherwise noted. Call ahead as shows are subject creativity of others or take try one’s hand at something January 16. Paul is described as bridging “the to change. More information can be found online new. Winter can open a new world of education, gulf between modern folk sound and the populist at www.thevanillabeancafe.com in the calendar information and friendship. traditions of Woody Guthrie and Pete Seger.” section. Information about the artist(s) and links to artist own web pages.

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